Michael Cain’s first autobiography is entitled ‘What’s it all about’, a line lifted from the title song of the movie Alfie. (His second is entitled ‘From the Elephant to Hollywood’ and both are worth reading and listening to. An’ he wrote ’em both : that’s why they’re AUTO-biographical. see … But I digress))
This movie tells the story of Alfie – played convincingly by the inimitable Michael Cain. Set in swinging sixties London (movie released in 1966) the story embodies that era, and would be considered grossly non-pc today. Alfie, with his charming and casual attitude towards women and relationships, whether they be single or married, he takes them on with little thought to finer feelings. Look after number one, and let the others make do with whatever consequences, is Alfie’s opinion and approach to life and to living.
That aspect of Alfie occupies most of the first three quarters of the film. But then he comes up against serious moments which compel him to think. Finally he has to face grisly consequences of his self-centred life style, and of his actions. He can no longer smarm his way out. The last words of the film script are Afie’s, as he speaks to the camera, to the Viewers –
I’ve got a bit of cash. I’ve got a car. I’ve got my health back …. but I’ve not got peace of mind. And if you ain’t got peace of mind, you’ve got nothing.’
With that, he turns and walks off with just a dog as a companion, as the theme song is introduced.
Cilla Black was the third choice to sing the number, (although Cher sang it in the 1966 movie) and considered the song the best written by Hal David. Burt Bacharach described it as his favourite of all the songs he wrote. Cilla arranged for some of the lines to be inscribed on her grave in Liverpool. This is Barbara Streisand’ rendering of the song :-
What’s it all about Alfie
Is it just for the moment we live
What’s it all about
When you sort it out, Alfie
Are we meant to take more than we give
Or are we meant to be kind?
And if, if only fools are kind, Alfie
Then I guess it is wise to be cruel
And if life belongs only to the strong, Alfie
What will you lend on an old golden rule?
As sure as I believe there’s a heaven above
Alfie, I know there’s something much more
Something even non-believers can believe in
I believe in love, Alfie
Without true love we just exist, Alfie
Until you find the love you’ve missed
You’re nothing, Alfie
When you walk let your heart lead the way
And you’ll find love any day Alfie, Alfie
Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: David Hal / Bacharach Burt F
Although the lyrics and film may be thought to be old, the New Testament is even older – and it has been saying those same things for centuries. So what? Well, you see, unlike Alfie, the story, the script, or the sound-track, the New Testament tells you how and where to find that ‘peace of mind’.
That something, in place of nothing.
Provides that answer to the question concerning life and living,
‘What’s it all about?’
“do unto others as you have them do unto you”
Luke 6:31
” …. the greatest of these is love.”
1st Corinthians 13:13
That’s what it (that is, life and living) is all about, Alfie, and me and you too.
Perceptions & Pictures 